Manaus Brazil

So you're headed for the Amazon? Manaus, a sprawling city of more than a million people on the banks of the Rio Negro River, is a primary point of departure for those venturing into the nearby jungle.

Before embarking on your jungle journey, you might want to take time to enjoy the city plaza, which hosts youth concerts and other entertainment.

You might want to check out some Manaus" lavish and brightly colored structures, some reflecting the massive wealth of the rubber boom of the past. Perhaps the most famous is the Teatro Amazonas Historic Theatre. The elegant interior of this 1896 opera house, completed after 15 years, boasts crystal chandeliers, wrought-iron banisters, and Italian frescoes. Operas and other events fill the stage regularly.

The waterfront piers, which are not fixed but left to float due to fluctuating water levels, are also worth a visit. You"ll see boats loading visitors headed for trips to the jungle lodges in the Amazon region.

Resources and Tips:

Remember to book in Manaus for river trips into the Amazon region.